The 5 R's of Thrift Store Styling with Faye De Lanty

'Before Macklemore, there was Faye De Lanty, a pioneer in thrift store styling at Salvo Stores and the bestselling author of Opshopulence – a style bible aimed at turning thrift store finds into million-dollar looks while championing sustainability. Recently, Faye partnered with Salvos Stores and Cricut to host a Mother’s Day workshop, offering her expertise in creating memorable brunch settings using thrifted decor. In this blog post, we delve into Faye’s five essential tips for mastering thrift store styling.'

Rework: Old treasures. New Life

Thrift stores are treasure troves of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Faye De Lanty’s first tip is to rework these finds by thinking outside the box. Whether it’s repurposing a vintage scarf into a trendy headband or transforming an old sweater into a chic pillow cover, the key is to get creative and breathe new life into pre-loved items. Reworking allows you to add a personal touch to your space while reducing waste and embracing sustainable living.

Rethink: Embrace the unconventional

Thrift store styling is all about breaking conventional fashion norms and embracing individuality. Faye encourages thrifters to rethink their approach to styling by mixing and matching unexpected pieces. Don’t shy away from combining patterns, textures, and colours to create a unique and eclectic look. Whether it’s pairing a vintage blazer with modern denim or mixing high-end accessories with budget-friendly finds, the possibilities are endless when you dare to rethink your style.

Refashion: Let’s talk tailoring

One of the perks of thrift store shopping is the affordability of the items. However, the challenge often lies in finding pieces that fit perfectly off the rack. Faye’s advice? Refashion your thrifted treasures to achieve a flawless fit. Whether it’s hemming a skirt, taking in a blouse, creating custom iron on designs using smart cutting machine, Cricut, or adding embellishments to jazz up a plain garment, tailoring can transform an ordinary find into a bespoke masterpiece. Refashioning not only elevates your style but also ensures that each piece in your wardrobe is tailored to perfection.

Restyle: A mix-and-match mindset

Versatility is key when it comes to thrift store styling. Faye advocates for restyling your thrifted pieces to maximise their potential. Experiment with different outfit combinations and styling techniques to create diverse looks for various occasions. A vintage dress can be dressed up with statement jewellery for a formal event or dressed down with sneakers for a casual day out. By mastering the art of restyling, you can make the most out of your thrift store finds and build a versatile wardrobe that reflects your unique personality.

Relove: Getting serious about sustainability

Above all, thrift store styling is about more than just fashion – it’s a lifestyle centred around sustainability and conscious consumption. Faye emphasizes the importance of reloving your thrifted treasures by cherishing and caring for them. Whether it’s repairing a loose seam, washing with eco-friendly detergents, or storing properly to prolong their lifespan, treating your thrifted items with love and respect ensures that they continue to bring joy for years to come. By cultivating a sustainable mindset, you not only reduce your environmental footprint but also contribute to building a more ethical and mindful fashion industry.

Read more BONUS TIPS from the article HERE

Source: @TheCarousel. May 08, 2024